Starting the New Year with eclectic exhibits, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum launches 2008 with two exhibits showcasing the talents of artists in our own corner of the world.

Pete the Cat: Acrylic Paintings by James Dean

January 10-February 17, 2008

Opening reception: Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008 2-4pm

Gallery talk with James Dean at 2:30 pm

Electrical engineer-turned-artist James Dean initially pursued painting as a sideline from his job at Georgia Power Company. Among his creations were the occasional humorous rendering of his cat, Pete – which soon became his best-selling works and a full-time occupation for the artist.

In this sampling of 30 acrylic paintings on canvas, Pete can be found in classic “pet poses,” along with new takes on the old masters' works, or “on location” all over the world.

Prints of Pete the Cat have been a very popular item in the Museum Shop for several years. For six weeks in 2008, original paintings of Pete will grace the upstairs galleries.

 

The Smiths, A Lowcountry Family of Artists

Michael McDunn: Works in Wood

January 13-April 17, 2008

Opening Reception on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2-4pm with Gallery Talks by the artists

Featuring oil paintings by Betty Anglin Smith, Shannon Smith, Jennifer Smith Rogers and black and white photography by Tripp Smith, along with custom designed furniture by gifted Greenville artisan Michael McDunn. Not only renowned as a close-knit family, the Smiths of Charleston are equally known for their extraordinary artistic talents. Betty Anglin and her 30-something triplets, Shannon, Jennifer and Tripp, intertwine their lives and their art. Betty's marsh-front home and studio serve as the backdrop for her enormous canvases full of strong colors and ever-moving brushwork.

Shannon, the world traveler, finds inspiration in subject matter she has encountered in the U.S. and abroad. Jennifer, mother of two youngsters herself, stays closer to home, capturing the historical sites and the coastal islands surrounding Charleston.

Tripp uses black and white photography to bring to life the hidden treasures of the barrier islands and natural vistas of the quickly dwindling pristine marshlands.

Exhibited with these works by the Smiths are finely crafted custom pieces of furniture by Greenville, SC artisan Michael McDunn. Whether commissioned to build a conference table, credenza or desk for a corporate office, or a Kiawah hunt board, walnut corner cabinet, or Kyudo audiovisual cabinet for some discriminating homeowner, master craftsman McDunn creates unique furniture pieces that serve as elegant and powerful centerpieces for any space.

The exhibit comprises some 28 works by the talented Smith family, along with 16 pieces by McDunn.